NICSTO

(Matthew 6:21) "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Northern Iowa Christian Schools Tax Organization (NICSTO)

Each year, Siouxland Christian School is afforded the opportunity for its constituents to make financial donations to NICSTO. These donations return to Siouxland Christian in the form of funding to be utilized for families needing financial assistance. Having earned full accreditation through the 12th grade, the amount Siouxland Christian is eligible for has doubled over the past couple of years.

The term “opportunity” is used not only because such giving affords families who might not otherwise be able to attend Siouxland Christian the opportunity to do so, but because as noted on the NICSTO web-site, the personal tax benefits of donating through NICSTO are substantial. Donors receive an Iowa tax credit for up to 65% of their contribution, while the charitable donation on federal taxes is commensurate with one’s tax bracket. So, as an example, a $5,000 donation to NICSTO could result in a tax credit for $3,250 with the state of Iowa and $1,000 on the federal form if in the 20% earnings bracket (see link for example).

Siouxland Christian School has always made our goal, though with increasing difficulty. A few years ago, we were only eligible for $30,000. For 2017, we were eligible for more than $118,000, still be less than the overall amount of assistance awarded to Eagle families. Another increase is coming in 2018. With our current budget (especially in a new building that we continue to put finishing touches on while also adding programs and personnel), it is more important now than ever that we continue to meet our goals/eligibilities. With such a tax benefit, our financial committee strongly encourages those who are able to consider giving in this fashion. The benefit is not only mutual, but eternal. Please contact the school office if you have any questions.